Dear J.T. & Dale: I am a 23-year-old guy who needs a decent job. I have completed my associate’s degree in computer technology at a tech college and have taken computer classes at a local junior college. How do I find jobs that pay a decent wage? (I am currently working part time at Target. I live in town of about 650,000 people, so a lot of BIG corporations are not located here.) — Jake

J.T.: When I coach clients, the first thing we discuss is where they want to live. Living in a smaller city has many wonderful advantages — I live in one and love it! — however, it also requires an understanding that “what you do” will be directly impacted.

Dale: Well, I’d call 650,000 a mid-size city, but either way, let’s not let our thinking get small. Some estimates suggest that there are more computers than people in the U.S. That would mean you have nearly a million computers in your city, Jake, and every one of them is frustrating somebody. So there’s plenty of work — the issue is finding it. Start by remembering that most big company jobs are NOT at headquarters. I recently met a young man who works locally helping State Farm agents with their computers. And I’m sure there are local IT people for Target. But don’t let yourself fall into the big-company trap, thinking that the best jobs are with the giant corporations. Most jobs are created by smaller companies, and that’s where you have the best shot at rapid advancement.

J.T.: Find them by reaching out to your town’s Chamber of Commerce, Kiwanis Club or any other nonprofit business association where local business leaders get together. As a young professional, you can ask to sit in and observe their events. Often, clubs encourage younger individuals to join in and network with them because they are always looking for future talent. If you’re going to get your career “jump-started,” you’re going to have to jump outside of your comfort zone. It’s time you get out there and let people know that you are ready for more.